Updates at Kartchner Caverns State Park Improve Health of Caves

Park remains open during busy holiday weekends

PHOENIX – This November, Arizona State Parks and Trails will begin making critical updates to lighting within the caves at Kartchner Caverns State Park, which will necessitate partial closures through December. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and make reservations in advance to ensure availability of tours.

Arizona State Parks and Trails is dedicated to the preservation and protection of Kartchner Caverns State Park, which was voted “Best Cave in the US” by USA Today readers.Kartchner Caverns is replacing the current lighting system, which is now nearing 20 years old. The new, environmentally-friendly LED fixtures will reduce the heat inside the caves and allow staff to keep the caverns closer to their natural temperature, as well as prevent the growth of formation-damaging algae.

The two caves at the park will be closed on an alternating schedule to enable guests to continue to explore at least one of the caverns during these important updates. Both caves will be open during Thanksgiving weekend, and all repairs will be complete before the December holidays.

The Big Room will be closed from November 26 to December 7.

The Rotunda/Throne Room will be closed from December 10 to December 21.

During the cave improvements, all other features of the park, including trails, campsites and cabins, will remain open. For additional information or to make cave tour reservations, please contact the park at 1-877-MY-PARKS and select option 2.

"Managing and conserving Arizona's natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our parks and through our partners."

For information about all 35 Arizona State Parks and Natural Areas, the Trails and Off-Highway Vehicle Program and State Historic Preservation Office call 1-877-MY-PARKS or visit azstateparks.com.